Posted Monday, September 10, 2012 --- 11:20 a.m.

From the Dane County Sheriff's Department:

Madison, WI. September 10, 2012 – The Dane County Sheriff’s Office wants to alert citizens in the town of Westport to a recent rash of garage and vehicle break-ins.

In the past two weeks, Sheriff’s deputies have responded to approximately 10 reports from homeowners victimized by break-ins.

In most cases, the thieves are taking cash/change and some small electronics from vehicles. However, the person(s) responsible have become increasingly brazen by entering attached garages and could potentially gain access into homes.

All of the break-ins have occurred to homes along Westport Road and Blue Bill Park Drive, at residences that have been unlocked.

The Sheriff’s Office encourages everyone to lock their vehicles, garages, and homes to decrease the likelihood of being victimized by these break-ins. Most often, thieves are looking for easy access to property, and will move on if the residence or vehicle is locked.

In addition to these break-ins, Sheriff’s deputies responded to a vehicle stolen from Blue Bill Park Drive at approximately 4:15 am on Saturday, September 8th. The vehicle was discovered fully engulfed in flames in a field off Enchanted Valley Road in the town of Berry. It’s unclear if these incidents are connected.

Anyone with information related to any of these crimes is asked to call the Dane County tip line at (608) 284-6900. In addition to securing homes and vehicles, the Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to report any suspicious activity immediately by calling 911.